MedDataToolAtenolol is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and manage chest pain from angina. It works by blocking certain signals in the heart, which helps to lower heart rate and blood pressure, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. You typically take it as a tablet once a day, starting with a dose of 50 mg, which can be increased to a maximum of 100 mg if needed. It's important to know that atenolol should not be taken if you have certain heart conditions, such as severe bradycardia (a very slow heart rate). Additionally, if you are taking calcium channel blockers like verapamil or diltiazem, you should use atenolol with caution, as this combination can lead to heart issues.
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Uses
- Hypertension.
- Angina Pectoris.
- Acute Myocardial Infarction.
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Dosage
Hypertension: Start with 50 mg once daily; may increase to 100 mg if needed.
Angina: Start with 50 mg once daily; may increase to 100 mg or 200 mg if needed.
Acute Myocardial Infarction: Start with 5 mg IV, then 50 mg tablets after stabilization.
Elderly or renal impairment: Start with lower doses as needed.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
DizzinessfatiguetirednessnauseadiarrheaBradycardia
Serious
hypotensionbronchospasmheart failure
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Do not stop taking suddenly; may worsen angina or cause heart issues.
- Not for patients with untreated pheochromocytoma.
- Use cautiously in patients with bronchospastic diseases.
- May mask signs of low blood sugar in diabetics.
- Monitor closely if using with calcium channel blockers.
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Drug interactions
- Calcium channel blockersincreased risk of bradycardiaMonitor
- Clonidinemay cause rebound hypertension if stopped suddenlyCaution
- Disopyramiderisk of severe bradycardia and heart failureCaution
- Amiodaroneadditive effects on heart rateCaution
- Catecholamine-depleting drugsrisk of hypotension and bradycardia.Caution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).